Canton PZC OKs Scout's Playground Project At Local School

CANTON, CT — Following the recent action of Canton's zoning board, a local school will soon have a new playground feature for a beloved children's game courtesy of an Eagle Scout.

The Canton Planning and Zoning Commission unanimously approved plans May 20 for a new Gaga ball pit at Cherry Brook Primary School as part of resident Liam Vincent's Eagle Scout project.

Popular with schoolchildren and gym classes, Gaga ball is a variation of dodgeball played inside a fenced pit, typically octagonal or hexagonal in shape.

Players strike a soft ball with their hands while attempting to eliminate opponents by hitting them below the knee.

The word "gaga" translates to "hit-hit" in Hebrew, reflecting the game's origin in Israel.

The commission voted 7-0 to approve a minor site plan modification for the project at 4 Barbourtown Road.

Commissioner John Huyghebaert recused himself from discussion and voting on the application.

Commission Chairman Michael Vogel called the meeting to order and later seated alternate Commissioner Melissa Renkert in place of absent Commissioner Elizabeth Vinick.

Vincent presented plans for the Gaga ball pit, which would be constructed at the school’s existing playground.

He told commissioners construction would take approximately two to three weekends to complete.

The approved application allows construction of the enclosed play area on school property owned by the Town of Canton.

According to application materials reviewed by the commission, the project has also received Canton Inland Wetlands and Watercourses Agency approval.

The commission found the proposal complied with Canton zoning regulations governing site plan applications and approved the project with standard conditions, including a requirement that work be completed within five years.

The approval becomes effective June 9 following recording of the approval documents with the town clerk.

For the minutes of the May 20 Canton Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, click on this link.

To watch the May 20 Canton Planning and Zoning Commission meeting, click on this link.